The five names in the mix to replace Zidane at Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane left Real Madrid fans, players and even the president dumbfounded when he confirmed he would be leaving the club as head coach.

The former France star has won nine trophies in less than three seasons in charge, including an unprecedented three Champions Leagues in a row, the latest secured just five days ago against Liverpool in Kiev.

Florentino Perez said on Thursday he would have preferred Zidane to be by his side "forever" and expressed his hope the 45-year-old will return to the club in the future.

For now, though, Perez is once again tasked with finding a replacement head coach. Here are just five of the biggest names who could take over at the Santiago Bernabeu, and their chances of doing so in the coming weeks...

Maurizio Sarri

It seemed certain Sarri would take over as Chelsea boss, but there has yet to be any real breakthrough between the club and his representatives.

Although Stamford Bridge is still his most likely destination, any further dithering from the Blues – who announced on Thursday that financial worries have seen them put off their new stadium plans – could force Sarri to look elsewhere, with Carlo Ancelotti having already taken his job at Napoli.

Sarri has cultivated stylish, attacking football in Serie A, although the title has always eluded him, and it would certainly be fascinating to see a squad with Madrid's level of talent playing to his tune.

However, he is also a combustible personality who has spent the last three years working with a belligerent president, so perhaps both parties would benefit from staying clear.

Chance of taking over: 5/10

Arsene Wenger

Another free agent, Arsene Wenger has claimed to have turned down Madrid on more than one occasion in the past due to his commitment to Arsenal.

With his 22-year spell in London now at an end, the 68-year-old has admitted to being eager for a fresh challenge, telling beIN SPORTS this week: "It's exciting now because I can be tested again. That's what I want in my life. I'm a competitor who wants to be tested."

Well, there is arguably no bigger test in club football. Wenger would be expected to challenge in Europe – something he struggled to do throughout his time at Arsenal – and also win his first league title since 2004.

That said, Wenger has always been respected by players for his handling of the dressing room, and his football has rarely been anything but stylish, even if not always wildly successful. He might even have plenty of money to spend, too...

Chance of taking over: 8/10